Roland VK-8M Owner's manual

Owner’s Manual

Thank you, and congratulations on your choice of the VK-8M organ module.

Before using this unit, carefully read the sections entitled: “IMPORTANT

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS” (p. 2), “USING THE UNIT SAFELY” (p. 3, 4), and

“IMPORTANT NOTES” (p. 5). These sections provide important information

concerning the proper operation of the unit. Additionally, in order to feel

assured that you have gained a good grasp of every feature provided by

your new unit, owner’s manual should be read in its entirety. The manual

should be saved and kept on hand as a convenient reference.

Conventions Used in This Manual

• Button names are enclosed in square brackets; e.g., [REVERB] button.

• Fractional harmonic bars (p. 21) are expressed like this: 1-1/3'; 2-2/3'.

• [1]–[6] means that you should press one of the buttons from [1]

through [6].

• The dark/lit/blinking status of an indicator is distinguished as

follows.

without the written permission of ROLAND CORPORATION.

Indicator

Button

dark blink lit

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2

USING THE UNIT SAFELY

001

• Before using this unit, make sure to read the

instructions below, and the Owner’s Manual.

..........................................................................................................

002c

• Do not open (or modify in any way) the unit or its

AC adaptor.

..........................................................................................................

003

• Do not attempt to repair the unit, or replace parts

within it (except when this manual provides

specific instructions directing you to do so). Refer

all servicing to your retailer, the nearest Roland

Service Center, or an authorized Roland

distributor, as listed on the “Information” page.

..........................................................................................................

004

• Never use or store the unit in places that are:

• Subject to temperature extremes (e.g., direct

sunlight in an enclosed vehicle, near a heating

duct, on top of heat-generating equipment); or

are

• Damp (e.g., baths, washrooms, on wet floors);

or are

• Humid; or are

• Exposed to rain; or are

• Dusty; or are

• Subject to high levels of vibration.

..........................................................................................................

004

• Never use or store the unit in places that are:

• Subject to temperature extremes (e.g., direct

sunlight in an enclosed vehicle, near a heating

duct, on top of heat-generating equipment); or are

• Damp (e.g., baths, washrooms, on wet floors); or

are

• Humid; or are

• Exposed to rain; or are

• Dusty; or are

• Subject to high levels of vibration.

..........................................................................................................

006

• When using the unit with a rack or stand recom-

mended by Roland, the rack or stand must be

carefully placed so it is level and sure to remain

stable. If not using a rack or stand, you still need

to make sure that any location you choose for

placing the unit provides a level surface that will

properly support the unit, and keep it from

wobbling.

..........................................................................................................

008c

• Be sure to use only the AC adaptor supplied with

the unit. Also, make sure the line voltage at the

installation matches the input voltage specified on

the AC adaptor’s body. Other AC adaptors may

use a different polarity, or be designed for a

different voltage, so their use could result in

damage, malfunction, or electric shock.

..........................................................................................................

IMPORTANT: THE WIRES IN THIS MAINS LEAD ARE COLOURED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE FOLLOWING CODE.

BLUE:

BROWN:

As the colours of the wires in the mains lead of this apparatus may not correspond with the coloured markings identifying

the terminals in your plug, proceed as follows:

The wire which is coloured BLUE must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter N or coloured BLACK.

The wire which is coloured BROWN must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter L or coloured RED.

Under no circumstances must either of the above wires be connected to the earth terminal of a three pin plug.

NEUTRAL

LIVE

For the U.K.

Used for instructions intended to alert

the user to the risk of injury or material

damage should the unit be used

improperly.

* Material damage refers to damage or

other adverse effects caused with

respect to the home and all its

furnishings, as well to domestic

animals or pets.

Used for instructions intended to alert

the user to the risk of death or severe

injury should the unit be used

improperly.

The

●

symbol alerts the user to things that must be

carried out. The specific thing that must be done is

indicated by the design contained within the circle. In

the case of the symbol at left, it means that the power-

cord plug must be unplugged from the outlet.

The symbol alerts the user to important instructions

or warnings.The specific meaning of the symbol is

determined by the design contained within the

triangle. In the case of the symbol at left, it is used for

general cautions, warnings, or alerts to danger.

The symbol alerts the user to items that must never

be carried out (are forbidden). The specific thing that

must not be done is indicated by the design contained

within the circle. In the case of the symbol at left, it

means that the unit must never be disassembled.

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3

USING THE UNIT SAFELY

008e

• Use only the attached power-supply cord.

..........................................................................................................

009

• Do not excessively twist or bend the power cord,

nor place heavy objects on it. Doing so can

damage the cord, producing severed elements and

short circuits. Damaged cords are fire and shock

hazards!

..........................................................................................................

010

• This unit, either alone or in combination with an

amplifier and headphones or speakers, may be

capable of producing sound levels that could

cause permanent hearing loss. Do not operate for

a long period of time at a high volume level, or at

a level that is uncomfortable. If you experience

any hearing loss or ringing in the ears, you should

immediately stop using the unit, and consult an

audiologist.

..........................................................................................................

011

• Do not allow any objects (e.g., flammable material,

coins, pins); or liquids of any kind (water, soft

drinks, etc.) to penetrate the unit.

..........................................................................................................

012b

• Immediately turn the power off, remove the AC

adaptor from the outlet, and request servicing by

your retailer, the nearest Roland Service Center, or

an authorized Roland distributor, as listed on the

“Information” page when:

• The AC adaptor, the power-supply cord, or the

plug has been damaged; or

• If smoke or unusual odor occurs

• Objects have fallen into, or liquid has been

spilled onto the unit; or

• The unit has been exposed to rain (or otherwise

has become wet); or

• The unit does not appear to operate normally or

exhibits a marked change in performance.

..........................................................................................................

013

• In households with small children, an adult

should provide supervision until the child is

capable of following all the rules essential for the

safe operation of the unit.

..........................................................................................................

014

• Protect the unit from strong impact.

(Do not drop it!)

..........................................................................................................

015

• Do not force the unit’s power-supply cord to share

an outlet with an unreasonable number of other

devices. Be especially careful when using

extension cords—the total power used by all

devices you have connected to the extension

cord’s outlet must never exceed the power rating

(watts/amperes) for the extension cord. Excessive

loads can cause the insulation on the cord to heat

up and eventually melt through.

..........................................................................................................

016

• Before using the unit in a foreign country, consult

with your retailer, the nearest Roland Service

Center, or an authorized Roland distributor, as

listed on the “Information” page.

..........................................................................................................

026

• Do not put anything that contains water (e.g.,

flower vases) on this unit. Also, avoid the use of

insecticides, perfumes, alcohol, nail polish, spray

cans, etc., near the unit. Swiftly wipe away any

liquid that spills on the unit using a dry, soft cloth.

101b

• The unit and the AC adaptor should be located so

their location or position does not interfere with

their proper ventilation.

..........................................................................................................

102c

• Always grasp only the plug on the AC adaptor

cord when plugging into, or unplugging from, an

outlet or this unit.

..........................................................................................................

103b

• At regular intervals, you should unplug the AC

adaptor and clean it by using a dry cloth to wipe

all dust and other accumulations away from its

prongs. Also, disconnect the power plug from the

power outlet whenever the unit is to remain

unused for an extended period of time. Any

accumulation of dust between the power plug and

the power outlet can result in poor insulation and

lead to fire.

..........................................................................................................

104

• Try to prevent cords and cables from becoming

entangled. Also, all cords and cables should be

placed so they are out of the reach of children.

..........................................................................................................

106

• Never climb on top of, nor place heavy objects on

the unit.

..........................................................................................................

107c

• Never handle the AC adaptor or its plugs with

wet hands when plugging into, or unplugging

from, an outlet or this unit.

..........................................................................................................

108b

• Before moving the unit, disconnect the AC

adaptor and all cords coming from external

devices.

..........................................................................................................

109b

• Before cleaning the unit, turn off the power and

unplug the AC adaptor from the outlet (p. 13).

..........................................................................................................

110b

• Whenever you suspect the possibility of lightning

in your area, disconnect the AC adaptor from the

outlet.

..........................................................................................................

118

• Should you remove screws, make sure to put them

in a safe place out of children's reach, so there is

no chance of them being swallowed accidentally.

..........................................................................................................

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4

IMPORTANT NOTES

291a

In addition to the items listed under “USING THE UNIT SAFELY” on page 2 and 3, please read and observe the following:

Power Supply

301

• Do not use this unit on the same power circuit with any

device that will generate line noise (such as an electric

motor or variable lighting system).

302

• The AC adaptor will begin to generate heat after long

hours of consecutive use. This is normal, and is not a

cause for concern.

307

• Before connecting this unit to other devices, turn off the

power to all units. This will help prevent malfunctions

and/or damage to speakers or other devices.

Placement

351

• Using the unit near power amplifiers (or other equipment

containing large power transformers) may induce hum.

To alleviate the problem, change the orientation of this

unit; or move it farther away from the source of inter-

ference.

352a

• This device may interfere with radio and television

reception. Do not use this device in the vicinity of such

receivers.

352b

• Noise may be produced if wireless communications

devices, such as cell phones, are operated in the vicinity of

this unit. Such noise could occur when receiving or initi-

ating a call, or while conversing. Should you experience

such problems, you should relocate such wireless devices

so they are at a greater distance from this unit, or switch

them off.

354b

• Do not expose the unit to direct sunlight, place it near

devices that radiate heat, leave it inside an enclosed

vehicle, or otherwise subject it to temperature extremes.

Also, do not allow lighting devices that normally are used

while their light source is very close to the unit (such as a

piano light), or powerful spotlights to shine upon the

same area of the unit for extended periods of time.

Excessive heat can deform or discolor the unit.

355b

• When moved from one location to another where the

temperature and/or humidity is very different, water

droplets (condensation) may form inside the unit. Damage

or malfunction may result if you attempt to use the unit in

this condition. Therefore, before using the unit, you must

allow it to stand for several hours, until the condensation

has completely evaporated.

356

• Do not allow rubber, vinyl, or similar materials to remain

on the unit for long periods of time. Such objects can

discolor or otherwise harmfully affect the finish.

359

• Do not paste stickers, decals, or the like to this instrument.

Peeling such matter off the instrument may damage the

exterior finish.

Maintenance

401b***

• To clean the unit, use a dry, soft cloth; or one that is

slightly dampened.

To remove stubborn dirt of plastic parts, use a cloth

impregnated with a mild, non-abrasive detergent. After-

wards, be sure to wipe the unit thoroughly with a soft, dry

cloth. Try to wipe the entire surface using an equal

amount of strength, moving the cloth along with the grain

of the wood. Rubbing too hard in the same area can

damage the finish.

402

• Never use benzine, thinners, alcohol or solvents of any

kind, to avoid the possibility of discoloration and/or

deformation.

Additional Precautions

551

• Please be aware that the contents of memory can be

irretrievably lost as a result of a malfunction, or the

improper operation of the unit. To protect yourself against

the risk of loosing important data, we recommend that

you periodically save a backup copy of important data

you have stored in the unit’s memory in another MIDI

device (e.g., a sequencer).

552

• Unfortunately, it may be impossible to restore the contents

of data that was stored in another MIDI device (e.g., a

sequencer) once it has been lost. Roland Corporation

assumes no liability concerning such loss of data.

553

• Use a reasonable amount of care when using the unit’s

buttons, sliders, or other controls; and when using its jacks

and connectors. Rough handling can lead to malfunctions.

556

• When connecting / disconnecting all cables, grasp the

connector itself—never pull on the cable. This way you

will avoid causing shorts, or damage to the cable’s

internal elements.

558a

• To avoid disturbing your neighbors, try to keep the unit’s

volume at reasonable levels. You may prefer to use

headphones, so you do not need to be concerned about

those around you (especially when it is late at night).

559a

• When you need to transport the unit, package it in the box

(including padding) that it came in, if possible. Otherwise,

you will need to use equivalent packaging materials.

561

• Use only the specified expression pedal (EV-7; sold

separately). By connecting any other expression pedals,

you risk causing malfunction and/or damage to the unit.

562

• Use a cable from Roland to make the connection. If using

some other make of connection cable, please note the

following precautions.

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5

Contents

Conventions Used in This Manual .......................................................................................................... 1

USING THE UNIT SAFELY......................................................................2

IMPORTANT NOTES ...............................................................................4

Main Features..........................................................................................7

Panel Descriptions..................................................................................8

FRONT PANEL ............................................................................................................................... 8

REAR PANEL................................................................................................................................ 10

How the VK-8M Works..........................................................................11

About the Virtual Tonewheel Sound Generator ...................................................................... 11

How the Organ Sound are Created............................................................................................ 11

About the Memories ..................................................................................................................... 12

Before You Begin Playing ....................................................................13

Connecting the AC Adaptor ................................................................................................................... 13

Connecting an External Keyboard......................................................................................................... 14

Using an External Keyboard to Play the VK-8M’s Sounds..................................................... 14

Mixing the Sound From the External Keyboard With That of the VK-8M........................... 14

Connecting Your Amp, Speakers, or Headphones.............................................................................. 15

Turning the Power On ............................................................................................................................. 16

Turning Off the Power ................................................................................................................. 16

Restoring the Factory Settings (Factory Reset)..................................................................................... 17

Listening to the Demo Songs .................................................................................................................. 18

Playing the Organ .................................................................................19

Listening to Various Sounds................................................................................................................... 19

About the Organ Voice............................................................................................................................ 20

Adjusting the Sound in Real Time (Harmonic Bars)........................................................................... 21

Changing the Organ Sound (Wheel Type, Leakage Level)................................................................ 24

Adding Crispness to the Sound (Percussion)....................................................................................... 25

Adding Modulation to the Sound (Vibrato and Chorus)................................................................... 28

Using the COSM Rotary Speaker Effect (Rotary Sound).................................................................... 29

Changing the Amp Type (Amp Type, Overdrive, Tone) ................................................................... 30

Using the D BEAM Controller to Produce Common Organ Effects................................................. 31

Adjusting the Sensitivity of the D Beam Controller................................................................. 33

Adding Ambience (Reverb) .................................................................................................................... 34

Mixing the Keyboard Sound with the Organ Sound .......................................................................... 35

Using the Active Expression Function....................................................................................... 35

Using the Expression Pedal .................................................................................................................... 36

Saving Your Settings (Registration) ...................................................37

Saving to a Registration in the Same Bank................................................................................ 38

Saving to a Registration in Another Bank ................................................................................. 38

Copying a Registration................................................................................................................. 38

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6

Contents

Advanced Use .......................................................................................39

About the Edit Modes .................................................................................................................. 39

Basic Procedure ............................................................................................................................. 39

Settings That Are Saved for the Entire System .................................................................................... 41

Rotary-related Settings................................................................................................................. 41

Click Noise and Percussion Settings .......................................................................................... 43

MIDI-related Settings ................................................................................................................... 44

Equalizer and Other Settings....................................................................................................... 47

Parameters That Are Stored in a Registration...................................................................................... 48

Reverb and Other Settings........................................................................................................... 48

Connecting the VK-8M to External Devices .......................................49

Connecting the External Keyboard and Pedal Keyboard................................................................... 49

Using an External Sequencer to Record and Play Back ...................................................................... 50

Saving VK-8M Settings on an External Sequencer (Bulk Dump)...................................................... 51

Loading Back Data That’s Been Saved on an External Sequencer......................................... 51

Troubleshooting....................................................................................52

Error Indications............................................................................................................................ 54

Registration List....................................................................................55

Edit Parameters.....................................................................................56

MIDI Implementation.............................................................................57

Main Specification ................................................................................63

Index.......................................................................................................64

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7

Main Features

Organ Features

Virtual Tonewheel Sound Generator

The VK-8M features a Virtual Tonewheel sound generator that perfectly simulates the sound-production

mechanism of traditional tone wheel organs. This rapid response is especially valuable when you use

characteristic organ performance techniques such as glissando. Since all parts — upper, lower, and pedal —

are completely polyphonic, notes aren’t cut off regardless of your performance technique.

Amp Modeling (COSM)

This technology analyzes the characteristics of the most popular amps and reproduces their warm, tube-like

sounds, as well as the unique sonic characteristics of their cabinets. You get four amp types, each with a

different sound, allowing you to perform using everything from clean to fat, overdriven sounds.

Rotary Sound

An effect algorithm using Roland’s COSM technology creates a faithful rotary speaker simulation that’s

essential for a great organ sound. Enjoy the realistic rotary sound simply by connecting a keyboard amp (such

as the KC series) or powered monitor (such as the DS series).

Integrated Controllers

Controllers such as the HARMONIC bars, [ROTARY SLOW/FAST] button, and OVERDRIVE knob have been

brought together with the sound module. No need to hassle with a bunch of connections–just connect your

own keyboard and start performing with authentic organ sounds.

Includes Input Jack

The unit includes an audio input jack, allowing you to input sounds from an external keyboard. Using the

input mix function, you can output the sounds of both the keyboard and the VK-8M without the need for a

separate mixer. The expression pedal function adds expression to the input sound, and the “Active

Expression” function further allows you to use the input sound as the Active Expression tone.

New Expression Pedal Function (Active Expression)

The expression pedal is an indispensable function for organ performances. When performing with the input

sound layered over the organ sound, the organ volume increases as you press the expression pedal, but when

Active Expression is used, the input sound volume makes a sudden jump to near maximum level.

Since the expression pedal can be used not only to change the volume, but the tone as well, it lets you enjoy

highly expressive performances.

Equipped with D Beam Controller

You can use the D Beam controller to control a total of six specialized effects with your performances, such as

switching the rotary speaker rotation speed and braking the tone wheel. is used to change The D Beam ON/

OFF button relies on new technology that allows for a range of different colors. Now push the envelope even

further in your stage performances.

Natural Wood Cabinet

The cabinet is built of wood, echoing the construction of traditional tone wheel organs. The VK-8M feature

beautifully finished natural wood that will gain luster with years of use.

Other Features

• MIDI connectors are provided on the rear panel, allowing you to connect a keyboard and pedal

keyboard and enjoy two-manual and pedal keyboard playing.

• User Registration memory lets you store 36 different panel settings.

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8

Panel Descriptions

■

FRONT PANEL

1.

[] (Headphone) jack

An optional set of headphones can be connected here (p.

15).

2.

MIDI Indicator

The indicator flashes when MIDI data from an external

MIDI device is being received.

3.

[MASTER VOLUME] knob

Adjust the overall volume (p. 16).

■

REVERB

4.

[REVERB] button

Select the type of reverb (p. 34).

5.

REVERB [LEVEL] knob

Adjust the depth of reverb (p. 34).

■

INPUT

6.

[INPUT] button

Switch the function for the INPUT jack (p. 35).

7.

INPUT [VOLUME] knob

Adjust the volume level of the sound input from the

INPUT jack (p. 35).

■

VIBRATO AND CHORUS

8.

[VIBRATO AND CHORUS] knob

Switches the type of vibrato or chorus effect (p. 28).

9.

VIBRATO AND CHORUS [ON] button

Switches the vibrato or chorus effect on/off (p. 28).

6 74 5321

8

14

21

23

28

22

13

25

24

20

10

15

26

16

9

17

12

11

27

18

19

29

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9

Panel Descriptions

■

AMPLIFIER

10.

[OVERDRIVE] knob

Adjust the depth of overdrive (p. 30).

11.

[AMPLIFIER] button

Switches the frequency response and cabinet resonance

of the virtual amp (p. 30).

12.

[TONE] knob

Adjust the tonal character of the organ voice (p. 30).

■

TONE WHEEL

13.

[TONE WHEEL] button

Select the type of the virtual tonewheel (p. 24).

14.

[LEAKAGE] knob

Allows you to independently add leakage noise,

separately from the leakage noise selected by the wheel

type (p. 24).

■

D BEAM

15.

D BEAM controller

You can modify the sound by moving your hand over

the D Beam controller (p. 31).

16.

D BEAM [ON] button

Switches the D Beam controller on/off (p. 31).

17.

D BEAM button

Selects the effect that will be controlled by the D Beam

controller (p. 31).

■

ROTARY SOUND

18.

[BRAKE] button

This button switches the rotation of the rotary sound.

When this is turned on, the rotation will gradually stop.

When it is turned off, the rotation will gradually resume

(p. 29).

19.

[SLOW/FAST] button

This button switches the speed of rotation for the rotary

sound (p. 29).

20.

SPEED Indicator

The left and right indicators light up alternately,

indicating the speed of the rotary speaker (p. 29).

■

PERCUSSION

21.

[2ND/3RD] button

This switches the percussion type (p. 25).

22.

[SOFT] button

This switches the volume of the percussion (p. 26).

23.

[SLOW] button

This switches the decay time of the percussion (p. 27).

■

REGISTRATION

24.

[H-BAR PART] button (Harmonic Bar Part)

This button selects the part whose settings the harmonic

bars will affect.

SEQUENCER MODE

The voices for parts specified with the MIDI transmit

channels are played.

SINGLE KEYBOARD MODE

The Upper Part voice is played, regardless of the parts

specified with the MIDI transmit channels (OMNI ON).

25.

[H-BAR MANUAL] button (Harmonic Bar

Manual)

When this function is used, the harmonic bar settings

will change from the settings of the registration to the

positions (settings) of the harmonic bars on the panel (p.

20).

26.

[WRITE] button

Saves the panel settings as a registration (p. 37, 38).

27.

[BANK] button

Selects the registration bank (p. 19, 37, 38).

28.

[1]–[6] button

The [1]–[6] buttons will switch registrations.

29.

Harmonic Bar

These bars create the sound of the organ voice. You can

modify the tone in real time as you play (p. 21).

ROTARY SPEED Indicators Explanation

Rapid blinking Fast rotation

Slow blinking Slow rotation

Lit Indicator

Part Affected by Harmonic Bar

Settings

2ND

This adds second percussion (same

pitch as the 4' harmonic bar) to the

organ voice.

3RD

This adds third percussion (same

pitch as the 2-2/3' harmonic bar) to

the organ voice.

2ND indicator and

3RD indicator are

dark

Percussion will not sound.

Indicator’s

color

The part whose settings the

harmonic bars will affect

MIDI

connector

function

Red

UPPER Part

When the harmonic bars are

moved, the sound of the

Upper part will change (p. 20).

SEQUENCER

MODE

Green

LOWER Part

When the harmonic bars are

moved, the sound of the

Lower part will change (p. 20).

SEQUENCER

MODE

Amber

PEDAL Part

When the harmonic bars are

moved, the sound of the Pedal

part will change (p. 20).

SEQUENCER

MODE

Dark

UPPER Part

When the harmonic bars are

moved, the sound of the

Upper part will change (p. 20).

SINGLE

KEYBOARD

MODE

Lit Indicator

Part Affected by Harmonic Bar

Settings

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10

Panel Descriptions

■

REAR PANEL

30.

Security Slot

http://www.kensington.com/

31.

INPUT R jack

32.

INPUT L (MONO) jack

You can connect an external keyboard and input sounds

from it. You can also play the sounds input from the

keyboard mixed with the VK-8M’s sounds.

33.

MIDI IN connector

You can connect an external keyboard to play sounds.

You could also connect an external sequencer here, and

get the VK-8M to play the music the sequencer sends it

(p. 50).

34.

MIDI OUT connector

An external MIDI device can be connected here to

receive MIDI data transmitted from the VK-8M.

35.

EXPRESSION PEDAL jack

An expression pedal (EV-7; sold separately) can be

connected here (p. 36).

36.

OUTPUT R jack

37.

OUTPUT L (MONO) jack

An amp, powered speakers, etc., can be connected here.

If outputting in monaural, connect to the L (MONO) jack

(p. 15).

38.

[POWER] switch

Turn the power on/off (p. 16).

39.

DC Inlet

Connect the included AC adapter to this inlet (p. 13).

40.

Cord Hook

Use this to fix in place the cord from the supplied AC

adaptor (p. 13).

30

31 33 34 37 38 3935 3632

40

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11

How the VK-8M Works

■

About the Virtual Tonewheel Sound Generator

A traditional tone wheel organ produces the sound by 91 toothed wheels called “tone wheels.” Each tone

wheel produces a different pitch. A motor is used to rotate these tone wheels past electromagnetic coils, and

as the teeth of each wheel pass by the corresponding electromagnetic coil, an audio signal is generated. The

combination of harmonic bars and the notes that are pressed then select the audio signals that are output,

producing the sound of the organ.

The virtual tonewheel sound generator of the VK-8M uses digital technology to precisely re-create the sound-

production mechanism of a tone wheel organ. The 91 toothed wheels are constantly “rotating” digitally, and

are able to produce sound at any time. The sound produced by these virtual tonewheels is determined by the

combination of harmonic bars and the state of the notes played on the keyboard—exactly as on traditional

tone wheel organs.

■

How the Organ Sound are Created

Tone Wheels

Tone wheels rotate constantly, and will therefore “speak” the instant you play a note. The virtual tonewheel

sound generator of the VK-8M is also producing sound constantly, allowing very rapid response when you

play a note. This rapid response is especially valuable when you use characteristic organ performance

techniques such as glissando.

The organ sound consists of a fundamental and eight harmonics, and these are mixed according to the

combination of the harmonic bars. You can use the harmonic bars to modify the tone even while you play,

allowing a high degree of expressive flexibility.

Percussion

Tone wheel percussion is used when you want to add an attack to the notes you play, making the sound more

crisp. Relative to the pitch of the note you play, you can specify either the second (SECOND) or third (THIRD)

partial as the pitch of the percussion sound, and you can decrease the percussion volume (SOFT) or lengthen

its decay (SLOW).

The percussion on tone wheel organs is of a type called “single-trigger,” meaning that percussion was not

applied to all the notes that were played, but only to the note that was pressed first. If you release the

currently-played key(s), percussion will sound for the next-played note. If you play legato (with notes

smoothly connected), percussion will be applied only to the first note, and not to subsequent notes. If you play

staccato, percussion will be applied to all notes. If you play rapidly when using percussion, the percussion

circuit may not keep up with your playing, causing the percussion sound to become softer. However, the VK-

8M allows you to adjust the speed of recovery so that it will keep up even with rapid playing (p. 44). On a tone

wheel organ, the way in which percussion is applied is a very important element in enhancing the

expressiveness of the performance.

On tone wheel organs, the 1' harmonic bar was used to produce the percussion sound. This means that when

you add percussion, the sound of the 1' harmonic bar will no longer be heard. Also, percussion will be applied

only to the Upper Part.

On tone wheel organs, turning off percussion [SOFT] button would lower the volume of the organ, but the

VK-8M allows you to adjust it so the volume of the organ won’t change when percussion [SOFT] button is

switched on/off (p. 43).

Key Click

The first generations of traditional tone wheel organs produced a “blip” noise (separately from percussion)

when a note was pressed or released. Initially, this click noise was considered a problem, but blues and rock

musicians came to utilize it in their performances, and the key click became an indispensable part of the organ

sound in jazz as well.

On the VK-8M you can independently adjust the volume of the key click for key-on and key-off (p. 43).

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12

How the VK-8M Works

Vibrato and Chorus

Traditional tone wheel organs provided a total of six different effects: three kinds of vibrato (V1, V2, V3) and

three kinds of chorus (C1, C2, C3).

Vibrato is an effect that cyclically modulates the pitch, and chorus is an effect that modulates the pitch to

produce spaciousness and depth.

Harmonic bars

The harmonic bars of a tone wheel organ are arranged in ascending order of pitch, from left to right.

Borrowing some inspiration from the pipes of a pipe organ, the bars are labeled in “feet,” with 8’ being the

fundamental.

There is one exception in the ordering of the harmonic bars, and that is the 5-1/3’ bar located second from the

left. According to the pitch order, this should be the third from the left, but since 5-1/3’ is an overtone of 16’,

and blends with the 16’ sound, it is placed beside the 16’ bar.

The harmonic bars are color-coded in three colors. The bars whose pitches are in octave relation to 8’ are white,

the bars that are not octave harmonics are black, and the lower pitch range is brown.

On tone wheel organs, the highest feet were repeated (“reused”) in the high keyboard range, and the lowest

feet were repeated in the low range. This is called “fold-back.”

If an organ had 109 tone wheels, all nine harmonics of the harmonic bars could be sounded by all 61 keys of

a tone wheel organ. However, if this were the case, the upper range would be unpleasantly screechy, and the

lower range would be excessively low and muddy-sounding.

For this reason, fold-back is used on the VK-8M to produce a well-balanced sound.

Amp Type (Rotary, Overdrive, Tone)

The VK-8M features four different amp types, reproducing everything from warm tube sound to the cabinets’

sonic characteristics.

Even if you are using a keyboard amp or monitor speakers, amp modeling gives you the sound of an actual

rotating speaker or a guitar amp sound, allowing you to enjoy performing with a wider variety of sounds.

What’s more, you can make settings for the rotary speaker volume, for the time used in switching between

the fast and slow rotation speeds, as well as the fast and slow rotation speeds themselves, and separate tweeter

and woofer settings for a greater sense of breadth in the sound.

Reverb

Reverb is an effect that adds reverberation to the sound. Reverb types ROOM, HALL, and CHURCH add the

reverberation of differently sized acoustical spaces. The SPRING reverb type simulates a reverb circuit that

used springs, and was often found on traditional organs.

The VK-8M lets you adjust the reverb time (p. 48). Also, by turning the [REVERB] knob you can adjust the

volume of the reverb (p. 34).

■

About the Memories

System memory

Settings that affect the entire VK-8M are referred to as “system memory.”

Registration memory

Settings that are stored independently for each registration number, such as harmonic bar and panel settings,

are called “registration memory.”

There are a total of 36 registration memories, and each of them can be edited.

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13

Before You Begin Playing

Connecting the AC Adaptor

1

Before making a connection, make sure that the VK-8M is turned off.

fig.01-01

2

Connect the supplied AC cable to the supplied AC adaptor.

fig.00-02

3

Connect supplied power cable to the VK-8M, and plug the other end into

a power outlet.

fig.00-01

* To prevent the inadvertent disruption of power to your unit (should the plug be

pulled out accidentally), and to avoid applying undue stress to the AC adaptor jack,

anchor the power cord using the cord hook, as shown in the illustration.

OFF

Upper position

AC adaptor

AC cord

Rear Panel

AC Outlet

Chord HookGround Terminal

NOTE

Be sure to use the supplied AC

cord and AC adaptor.

NOTE

To prevent malfunction and/

or damage to speakers or other

devices, always turn down the

volume, and turn off the

power on all devices before

making any connections.

In some cases, depending on the environment in which the unit is installed, the

surface of the panel may sometimes feel rough and grainy. This is due to an

infinitesimal electrical charge, which is absolutely harmless. However, if you are

concerned about this, connect the ground terminal (see above figure) with an external

ground. When the unit is grounded, a slight hum may occur, depending on the

particulars of your installation. If you are unsure of the connection method, contact

the nearest Roland Service Center, or an authorized Roland distributor, as listed on

the “Information” page.

Unsuitable places for connection

• Water pipes (may result in shock or electrocution)

• Gas pipes (may result in fire or explosion)

• Telephone-line ground or lightning rod (may be dangerous in the event

of lightning)

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14

Before You Begin Playing

Connecting an External Keyboard

■

Using an External Keyboard to Play the VK-8M’s

Sounds

1

Before making any connections, make sure that all the devices are turned off.

2

Use a commercially available MIDI cable to connect the VK-8M’s MIDI

IN connector to the MIDI OUT connector of your keyboard.

3

Turn on the keyboard.

4

Turn on the power of the VK-8M.

■

Mixing the Sound From the External Keyboard

With That of the VK-8M

1

Before making any connections, make sure that all the devices are turned off.

2

Use a commercially available audio cable to connect the VK-8M’s INPUT

connector to the OUTPUT connector of your keyboard.

3

Turn on the keyboard.

4

Turn on the power of the VK-8M.

NOTE

To prevent malfunction and/

or damage to speakers or other

devices, always turn down the

volume, and turn off the

power on all devices before

making any connections.

MIDI OUT

MIDI IN

OUTPUT

INPUT

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15

Before You Begin Playing

Connecting Your Amp, Speakers, or Headphones

The VK-8M is not equipped with an amplifier or speakers. In order to hear the

sound, you will need to connect audio equipment such as a monitor speaker system

or stereo set, or use headphones.

1

Before making any connections, make sure that all the devices are turned

off.

2

Connect the VK-8M to your amp/speaker system and headphones as

shown in the diagram.

fig.01-02

Use audio cables to connect audio equipment, such as an amp or speakers. If you are

using headphones, plug them into the PHONES jack.

NOTE

To prevent malfunction and/

or damage to speakers or other

devices, always turn down the

volume, and turn off the

power on all devices before

making any connections.

Audio Set

Powered Amplifier

Mixer

Audio

cable

Monitor

Speaker

In order to take full advantage

of the VK-8M’s performance,

we recommend using a stereo

amp/speaker system. If you

are using a mono system,

make the connections to the

OUTPUT L (MONO) jack.

Audio cables and headphones

are not included. You will

need to provide these

separately.

Headphones

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16

Before You Begin Playing

Turning the Power On

1

Before turning on the VK-8M’s power, make sure that:

• The VK-8M is correctly connected to the desired peripheral devices.

• The volume of the VK-8M and any connected audio equipment or

speakers is turned to the minimum position.

2

Press the [POWER] switch located on the rear panel of the VK-8M to turn

on the power.

When the power is on, the indicators for the [REVERB] button and other buttons’

indicator on the panel will light.

fig.01-07

3

Turn on the power of the connected amp or audio system.

4

Rotate the [MASTER VOLUME] knob clockwise to adjust the volume of

the VK-8M.

fig.01-08

5

Adjust the volume of the device connected to the VK-8M.

■

Turning Off the Power

1

Before switching off the power, confirm the following:

• The volume of the VK-8M and any connected equipment is turned to the

minimum position.

• Any sound data you have created has been saved.

2

Turn off the power of the equipment connected to the VK-8M.

3

Press the VK-8M’s [POWER] switch to turn off the power.

fig.01-07

NOTE

Once the connections have

b

een completed, turn on

power to your various devices

in the order specified. By

turning on devices in the

wrong order, you risk causing

malfunction and/or damage to

speakers and other devices.

ON

Lower position

NOTE

This unit is equipped with a

protection circuit. A brief

interval (a few seconds) after

power up is required before

the unit will operate normally.

NOTE

Be careful not to raise the

volume excessively. Excessive

volume may damage your

amp/speaker system/

headphones or could cause

hearing problems.

NOTE

If you turn off the power while

you are making sound

settings, the settings that you

are modifying will be lost. If

you wish to keep your

modified settings, you must

save them before turning off

the power. For details, refer to

“Saving Your Settings

(Registration)” (p. 37).

OFF

Upper position

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17

Before You Begin Playing

Restoring the Factory Settings

(Factory Reset)

This function resets all the VK-8M’s settings to their factory default values.

1

Make sure that the volume is turned to the minimum position.

2

Press the VK-8M’s [POWER] switch to turn off the power.

fig.01-07

3

While holding down the [BANK] button, [WRITE] button and [H-BAR

MANUAL] button, press the [POWER] switch to turn on the power.

4

Press the [BANK] button, [WRITE] button and [H-BAR MANUAL]

button until all of the panel indicators light.

All settings will be restored to what they were when the instrument first left the

factory.

Once the Factory Reset has been completed, all panel indicators will light for several

seconds.

fig.01-07

NOTE

When you perform the Factory

Reset operation, all the data

you created will be lost from

the VK-8M’s internal memory.

If the VK-8M contains

important data that you wish

to keep, use the Bulk Dump

operation to save the data on

an external MIDI sequencer

b

efore you perform the Factory

Reset operation (p. 51).

OFF

Upper position

NOTE

Never turn off the power

while Factory Reset is being

performed.

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18

Before You Begin Playing

Listening to the Demo Songs

The VK-8M contains four demo songs. Here’s how to listen to the demo songs and

experience the various organ sounds and effects.

fig.01-11

1

Press the [H-BAR PART] button and the [H-BAR MANUAL] button at

the same time.

Enter Demo mode.

2

Press any of the REGISTRATION buttons [1]–[4] to select a demo song.

Chain Play of the demo songs begins from the selected song.

When the selected song is finished, playback continues with the next song in the

sequence. When the last song finishes playing, playback will return to the first song

and continue.

3

Press the [H-BAR PART] button.

Demo song playback will stop.

You will exit Demo mode.

Demo Song

Number

Song Name Copyright

1

13 2

NOTE

Unauthorized use of this

material for purposes other

than private, personal

enjoyment is a violation of

applicable laws.

NOTE

No data for the music that is

played will be output from

MIDI OUT.

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19

Playing the Organ

Listening to Various Sounds

The VK-8M comes with 36 registrations stored onboard. Here’s how to switch

registrations to hear the various sounds.

There are six banks of registrations, with six sounds in each bank.

Switch between the registrations to hear the various sounds.

fig.01-13

1

Connect the external keyboard to the VK-8M (p. 14).

2

Hold down the [BANK] button and press one of the buttons from [1]

through [6] to select the bank number.

3

Press one of the buttons from [1] through [6] to select a registration

number.

The indicator of the number button you’ve selected will light.

4

Press the [H-BAR PART] button so its light goes out.

5

Play the keyboard to hear the sound you selected.

The Upper Part voice of the selected registration is played.

24 2, 3

If you want to select a

registration from the same

b

ank, step 2 is not necessary.

While you are pressing the

[BANK] button, the indicator

of the selected bank will light.

You can set the MIDI channels

for the VK-8M and the external

keyboard so that the Lower

Part and Pedal Part sounds

from the external keyboard are

played (p. 49).

Example:

• Switching from registration 11 to registration 16

Press the [6] button.

• Switching from registration 11 to registration 35

Hold down the [BANK] button and press the [3] button. Take your finger off the

[BANK] button and [3] button, and press the [5] button.

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20

Playing the Organ

About the Organ Voice

The organ voice has three parts: “upper,” “lower,” and “pedal.” You can connect an

external keyboard to the VK-8M to play the voices for those parts.

The sounds of the Upper, Lower, and Pedal parts of an organ voice can be edited

using the harmonic bars.

fig.01-13

1

Connect the external keyboard to the VK-8M (p. 14).

2

Set the MIDI channels for the VK-8M and the external keyboard (p. 46).

3

Press the [H-BAR PART] button to select the part whose voice you want

to change.

Each time the [H-BAR PART] button is pressed, the button’s color changes.

SEQUENCER MODE

The voices for parts specified with the MIDI transmit channels are played.

SINGLE KEYBOARD MODE

The Upper Part voice is played, regardless of the parts specified with the MIDI

transmit channels (Omni On).

4

Press the [H-BAR MANUAL] button to have the harmonic bar settings

applied to the voice.

The harmonic bar settings are applied to the voice.

5

Move the harmonic bars to edit the sound (p. 21).

[H-BAR PART]

Button Color

Part Affected by the

Harmonic Bar Settings

MIDI Connector Function

(MIDI IN FUNCTION)

Red

Upper Part SEQUENCER MODE

Green Lower Part SEQUENCER MODE

Amber Pedal Part SEQUENCER MODE

dark Upper Part SINGLE KEYBOARD MODE

For instructions on making the

external keyboard’s MIDI

channel settings, refer to the

owner’s manual for the

external keyboard.

Only the 16' and 8' sounds are

used in creating the pedal part.

A sound you’ve edited can be

saved as a registration (p. 37).

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Roland VK-8M Owner's manual

Roland VK-8M Owner's manual

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